In helping lead Pleasant Grove to its first-ever football state championship in 2017, Jackson enjoyed breakout success.

Jackson finished his freshman year with 98 tackles (16 for loss), 11.5 sacks, 23 QB pressures, three forced fumbles, an interception, and six pass break-ups. He was part of a dominant defensive front that carried Pleasant Grove to a 16-0 record and the 4A Division II state title.

Southern Miss competes in Conference USA and is coached by Jay Hopson. The Golden Eagles finished 2017 with an overall record of 8-5 (6-2 in conference play).

Jackson, like all incoming sophomores, is first eligible to sign with any team that offers him in December 2020.